Passive Energy

The NY Times published an article recently about 'passive' energy in Germany. They made it sound like something new. The book on passive energy was written in the mid 1970's by Edward Mazria ("The Passive Solar Energy Book"). "Passive energy" is created through the use of environment and smart construction to offset the need for energy input from outside sources. Passive energy is especially suitable for temperate climates where the difference between inside and outside temperatures is relatively small, and for high arid climates where cold temperatures can be offset by abundant sunshine. It can also supply a substantial amount of needed winter time heat in cold climates, thus ofsetting the need for more and  more greenhouse gas generating fuel inputs. 

The problem with passive energy is that it requires thought in planning, design, operations and maintenence. It is not idiot proof, it is not consumerist and it is not glamourous. One can not just throw up a stick-built house from a standard plan and expect it to  provide passive energy. There are some new technologies, such as the heat exchangers mentioned in the Times article, but the best source of information remains Edward's Mazria's book (which is linked above). While it is true that Mr. Mazria wrote the best book on passive energy more than 25 years ago, he continues to be on the cutting edge and also has a new initiative which he calls "Architecture 2030". Here is a blurb from and a link to his web page:

2030 Challenge Stimulus Plan Hits Capitol Hill 

President-elect Obama has committed to economic recovery, energy independence, carbon-neutral buildings by 2030 and an 80% reduction in US greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Architecture 2030 has developed a groundbreaking economic stimulus plan that, with a single investment, simultaneously addresses all of these issues. Edward Mazria and Kristina Kershner presented the 2030 Challenge Stimulus Plan last week to policymakers and industry leaders in the Nation’s Capitol where the Plan is now gathering steam. http://www.architecture2030.org/